In this episode of Nuestro Campeon, host Javier Perez sits down with therapist and community leader Hilda McClure for a powerful conversation about mental health, trauma, culturally responsive care, and the growing need for resources within the Latino community.

Hilda shares how an effort that began with the goal of serving a local community quickly revealed a much larger need—both for affordable mental health services and for more bilingual, culturally competent clinicians. She discusses the importance of building connections among providers so they can learn from one another, expand access to care, and better support the communities they serve.

The conversation also explores how therapists help clients navigate periods of genuine fear and uncertainty. Hilda explains the nervous system’s fight, flight, and freeze responses, why some stress cannot simply be “breathed away,” and how prolonged uncertainty can take a physical and emotional toll.

At the heart of the discussion is the importance of human connection. Hilda shares why authenticity and the relationship between therapist and client can be among the most powerful parts of the healing process—and why creating spaces where people feel seen, understood, and supported matters more than ever.

Dr. Romero explores the difference between what he describes as “capital M” and “little m” machismo — moving away from a version of masculinity defined by aggression and control and toward one that allows men to remain strong leaders while also developing emotional awareness, compassion, and vulnerability.

Drawing from his own upbringing in Española, New Mexico, and more than 25 years as a licensed clinical social worker, Dr. Romero discusses the impact of cultural expectations, media portrayals, discrimination, schools, family dynamics, and generational differences on Latino men.

The conversation also explores how traditions and symbols can become powerful bridges between generations. From worn work gloves that represent a father’s sacrifice to the front porch conversations where families finally let their guard down, Javier and Dr. Romero examine how Latino men can express love and vulnerability in ways that still honor the values passed down to them.

In this episode, Dr. Cavazos explores the realities of Latino men’s mental health, including cultural expectations, the stigma surrounding vulnerability, and the pressures that can prevent men from seeking help. She also discusses how family, community, and culturally sensitive care can create pathways toward healing.

This is an important conversation about breaking silence, strengthening families, and building a community where asking for help is recognized as an act of courage.

Learn more about the Cannenta Foundation, which provides access to compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health care by addressing financial and language barriers.